Hans News Service Vijayawada

Everystudent should learn natural farming as food, nutrition and health are the foundation of a sustainable future, said Jordan Jasper of the Foundation on Future Farming, Germany, while interacting with students at Kornepadu High School in Guntur district on Friday. He stressed that shrinking cultivable land across the world makes it essential for the younger generation to acquire practical knowledge of sustainable agriculture.

Launching the internationally acclaimed 2,000 Square Metre Model at the school, Jasper explained that a scientifically planned 2,000 sq. m. farm can ensure food and nutrition security for an entire family. He encouraged students to nurture their talents while considering agriculture as a meaningful and rewarding career.

An international delegation comprising Wanjama Njoroge Daniel, coordinator of Seed Saver Network-Kenya, farmers Oddah Friday Ochomo and Zipporah Nyambura Kuria, John Kariuki Mwangi, head of Slow Food Kenya, and Jordan Jasper participated in the launch of the pilot demonstration. The programme began with the planting of saplings by the delegates, students and teachers.

Through the Global Farming School initiative, the experts highlighted the importance of natural farming, healthy food systems, biodiversity conservation and seed preservation. They expressed confidence that students would emerge as ambassadors of sustainable agriculture and inspire future generations.

Y Sudhakar, Senior Thematic Lead (Academy), Rythu Sadhikara Samstha, said successful implementation of the 2,000 sq. m. model could bring international recognition to both the school and its students.

The programme was attended by Edlapalli Venkateswara Rao of the Rythu Nestham Foundation, T. Rajakumari, District Project Manager, Guntur, the headmaster, teachers, farmers, natural farming personnel and other dignitaries. The event concluded with a call for collective efforts to promote food security, environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture through active student participation.